Promoting safety first at sea has beenthe concern ofthe National Maritime Safety Authority.
Last Friday,the authority was presented Grab Begs containing safety equipment fromthe Secretariat ofthe Pacific Community in Port Moresby.
The grab bags targets small craft seafarers.
Chief Executive Officer for National Maritime Safety Authority, Chris Rupen saidthe safety equipment is timely asthe authority prepares to roll outthe Small Craft Act.
“The concept is new to Papua New Guineaand we will try to convince our people that safety istheir own responsibility, and thatthey must carry lifesaving equipment’s when going out to sea,” said Chris.
The grab bag concept has been used by Australian coastal communities and has improverd safety survival rates during small craft accidents.
Representttingthe Secretariat ofthe Pacific Community, Jonathan Manieva sain PNG is a member country and such assistance is vital to promote safety at sea.
“We will not stopthem to go out tothe sea but to helpthem become aware ofthe lifesaving equipment’s for their own safety,” Jonathan said.
The equipment includes sea anchor, radio, flashlightomirror, mobile pouch, compass, life jacket and even a five minute safety checklist.
The grab bags will be distributed after Maritime Provinces establish registration with NMSA.
The safety equipment is valued at a total cost of seventy-two thousand kina (K72, 000.00).
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